Bishops under the Ecumenical Synods of Bishops, Archbishops, Apostles and Senior Clergy have rejected a recent marriage guideline issued by the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, which advised men not to marry women who cannot cook.
Adeboye gave the advice during the May edition of the Holy Ghost Service held on Saturday, where he spoke on factors young men should consider before marriage. He warned that decisions based only on physical attraction could lead to what he described as a “deep trap.”
He said, “There are many demons that are very beautiful. If you marry because of beauty, you might choose a demon. I’m not saying all beautiful people are demonic. If it’s beauty alone that leads you into marriage, it’s a deep trap.”
The cleric also advised men to prioritise practical and domestic qualities in a partner over appearance and social status.
He said, “Don’t marry a girl who cannot cook. We are talking of excellent counsel. Only I can tell you these things. Even if a prophet says this is your wife, if she can’t cook, say ‘Thank you, keep her.’”
Adeboye referenced biblical examples to support his position and urged men to consider domestic readiness alongside spiritual guidance when choosing a life partner.
The comments triggered reactions from church leaders under the Ecumenical Synods of Bishops, Archbishops, Apostles and Senior Clergy, who described the position as a personal opinion rather than a doctrinal rule.
Archbishop Osazee William, who serves as International Secretary of the group, questioned the basis of the instruction.
William said, “Is it scriptural for a man not to marry a woman who cannot cook? Even men can cook. This is not directly opposing the father of faith, who is a revered God’s general, but this is an opinion.”
Another senior cleric within the fellowship argued that cooking skills should not determine marriage suitability. He stressed that personal character carries greater importance in marital decisions.
He said, “What about a good cook that is a witch? What about a woman who can cook and becomes obsessed with cooking to the extent that she loses character? You can know how to cook and not be neat or hygienic. Man shall not live by bread alone.
“If a person does not know how to cook, the person can learn. You can even buy a cookery book. I think the yardstick for marrying is a good, godly and industrious character.”
He also pointed to changing economic realities that now affect household roles, including situations where women contribute significantly to family income.
“There are so many women who are breadwinners and do not have time to cook. You can be a good cook and all you know is cooking and nothing else. Men need more than delicious meals. Such a career woman only needs to employ a good cook,” he added.
The disagreement adds to ongoing public debate over modern expectations in marriage, especially on the balance between tradition, personal skills and character assessment in choosing life partners.
